Mom Accused Of Stealing Money From Cheerleading Squad Going To Jail

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- A mother from Bethel Park showed up in a courtroom today with a personal check in hand and an apology.

Mary Schneir is a self-described "shopaholic."

The 42-year-old former president of the Bethel Park Junior Cheerleaders admits that's part the reason she allegedly stole more than $19,000 from the squad's funds.

Schneir was sentenced Thursday morning.

"A month in jail and the remainder of her sentence will be on house arrest," says Phil DiLucente, Schneir's defense attorney.

DiLucente indicated that Schneir is being treated for depression.

But he also pointed out that Judge Anthony Mariani took a number of factors into consideration before sentencing Schneir.

"One, the length of the thefts, and also she held a position of trust with the Bethel Park Cheerleaders," DiLucente said.

Investigators contend that over two years, Schneir made multiple unauthorized cash withdrawals from the Hawkettes' bank account using an ATM.

Saying that they are pleased with Schneir's sentence, the Bethel Park Junior Cheerleader's Board released a statement.

It says, in part: "We are grateful that restitution has been made and the board will continue working as a unit as we bring closure to this unfortunate situation. It is our hope that today's sentence will deter others from doing this to other organizations in the future."

Schneir has taken all the proper steps to getting better.

Her attorney added that his client hopes that after she serves her time in the Allegheny County Jail that friends will continue to support her.

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